The Houston Astros have been actively involved in trade discussions over the past month as they’ve revitalized their season. Just one game behind in the American League West, they have a chance to seize the division lead right after the All-Star break with a three-game series against the first-place Seattle Mariners.
With the trade deadline approaching, the roster is expected to improve in the coming weeks.
Rumors indicate that Houston is looking to upgrade at first base and add depth to their starting pitching. They’ve faced injuries on the mound and need all the help they can get for the second half of the season.
Regarding first base, the Astros are reportedly aiming for a long-term solution, according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic. They released Jose Abreu in mid-June after he failed to meet expectations.
In their search for a replacement, Bowden mentioned that Pete Alonso is someone GM Dana Brown has inquired about.
“Astros = has made it clear to other front offices that he’s focused on adding a veteran starter and an impactful long- or short-term solution at first base. He’s talked to the Mets about Luis Severino and Pete Alonso,” Bowden wrote.
The New York Mets have been playing better recently and hold the third Wild Card spot in the National League. This may deter them from trading Alonso, who will become a free agent at the end of the season.
However, if the Mets aren’t planning to re-sign Alonso, trading him could be beneficial. Letting him leave for nothing wouldn’t make sense.
Alonso, when asked about the trade rumors, expressed his desire to stay.
“I don’t want to get traded, I love it here, it’s home,” Alonso said.
While he’s reiterated this sentiment before, the business side of baseball could still lead to a trade if the Mets decide to move him. Alonso’s stance should encourage the Mets to pay him, as he’s made it clear he wants to remain in Queens.
If the Mets choose to keep him, the Astros will have to look elsewhere for a first base upgrade.
